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Div Comm office National Trade Union Front serves one month ultimatum to Govt Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: In protest against, what they alleged, attrocities being committed on the employees by the State Government, Jammu and Kashmir National Trade....more Has Govt
declared Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Has Government declared Ladakh region a Union Territory ? this was query of the Congress member P Namgiyal while responding to the reply of the Minister of Roads and Building Madan Lal Sharma...........more 5 trucks
with smuggled Excelsior Correspondent RAMBAN, Dec 17: Forest department seized five trucks smuggling forest produce worth lakhs from Anantnag to Punjab and took several..........more Panchayati
Raj Act amended Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: The Assembly today amended the Panchayati Raj Act paving way for 33 percent reservation to women.....more Association
of Doctors Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Association of Doctors Jammu Province in a meeting held here today strongly criticised junior doctors........more |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Jammu and Kashmir Government has decided to avail the benefit of FCI scheme for construction of storage godowns in private sector in the state...........more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: While the State Government has spent an amount of Rupees 1,89, 85,801 on the renovation of the Government bungalows occupied by the Minister, an amount of Rupees 6,04, 130 has been spent on furniture/furnishings of the private houses of the Ministers...........more Shelja
adjudged best in Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: With the holding of Western vocal solo and Western group song contest, first phase of the ‘Display Your Talent’ at Jammu University, concluded today.........more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Finance Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig today charged the National Conference with being power hungry. He said their (the NC members) all actions in the Assembly pointed..........more |
Employees stage dharna in front of
Div Comm office Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: In protest against, what they alleged, attrocities being committed on the employees by the State Government, Jammu and Kashmir National Trade Union Front today held massive demonstration and staged dharna in front of office of Divisional Commissioner Jammu. During the dharna, the participants decided to give one month time to the coalition Government to concede the demands of the employees failing which the JKNTUF would intensify agitation by initiating some harsh steps. Addressing the dharna, the president of National Trade Union Front Mohd Gafoor Dar and general secretary Darshan Magotra expressed resentment over the sky rocketing prices of essential commodities which, they said, have broken the backbone of the working class. They said that the non-release of due four percent Dearness Allowance (DA) and Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) has been adding to the woes of the employees and workers. They also advocated the regularisation of daily wagers of all the departments particularly of Public Health Engineering (PHE) and asked the Government to immediately change its attitude towards the workers and employees and settle all the demands without any further delay. Both the Trade Union leaders cautioned the employees not to be misled by the vested interests, who are hell bent to divide the employees. They also asked the rank and file of the NTUF to be ready for the future programme. The demands which the Trade Union leaders highlighted while addressing the dharna included change of designation of helpers in Irrigation Department as pump operators and as per the job performed by them in various departments, proper maintenance of the GP fund records, holding of Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) meeting of various departments twice in the year, enhancement of medical allowance from Rs 100 to Rs 300, illegal change of cadres in the Cooperative Department, removal of dead wood from State Administration to create corruption free atmosphere, giving Scheduled Tribe status to Pahari speaking people of Rajouri, Poonch, Uri and Karnah and inclusion of Dogri in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution. The dharna was also addressed by Ghulam Mohd Malik, Chaman Lal Sangotra, Mukhtar Singh, Darshan Angurana, Manohar Kumar, Rajinder Singh, Ashok Badyal, Magar Singh, Amar Nath, Varinder Kumar, Krishan Singh, Shiv Nath and Dharamveer Choudhary. |
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Has Govt declared Ladakh UT, asks Cong member Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Has Government declared Ladakh region a Union Territory ? this was query of the Congress member P Namgiyal while responding to the reply of the Minister of Roads and Building Madan Lal Sharma in the Upper House. Minister in his written reply gave district wise break up of the expenditure incurred by the Department on annunal repairs under non-plan since October 2002 to October 2003. Expenditures of all districts of Jammu and Kashmir provinces were given but neither Leh nor Kargil were mentioned in the reply. "Why you have not mentioned expenditures of Ladakh region. Has Government declared Ladakh a Union Territory ?", asked P Namgiyal, who is MLC from Ladakh. Chairman of the Legislative Council Abdul Rashid Dar also took exception of the reply and asked the Minister to clarify why expenditures of Ladakh region were not mentioned ? Roads and Buildings Minister, however, clarified that funds alloted to the Ladakh region were under the direct control of the Ministry of Ladakh Affairs that was the reason of not mentioning expenditure in the reply. Earlier while replying to the question of Nazir Ahmed Mir, the Minister stated that Rupees 2427.46 lakhs have been incurred by R&B Department Kashmir, Rupess 2096.68 lakh by R&B Department Jammu, Rupees 778.84 lakh by PHE Department Kashmir, Rupees 854.36 lakh by PHE Department Jammu, Rupees 1028.60 lakh by I&FC Department Kashmir, Rupees 760.25 lakh by I&FC Department Jammu, Rupees 148.41 lakh by RTIC Jammu, Rupees 185.04 lakh by Medical Department Kashmir and Rupees 154.85 lakh by Medical Department Jammu. |
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5 trucks with smuggled forest produce worth lakhs seized Excelsior Correspondent RAMBAN, Dec 17: Forest department seized five trucks smuggling forest produce worth lakhs from Anantnag to Punjab and took several persons in custody. A Forest spokesman said that trucks bearing registration No. 8611/JK03, 8417/ JK03, 8601-JK03, 2508/JKC and another 2508/ JKC were on their way to Amritsar from Verinag in Kashmir. They were intercepted by Forest team led by DFO and Range Officer at Banihal. The snow fall had begun on Sunday and it was raining. So due to bad weather the physical check could not be conducted. Yesterday, the team during search found that huge quantity of discoria —90 and 158 bags separately, Dhoop and Khorr, Chalis Para —50 bags, 80 bags of Kuth, Chalis Pattar—11 bags and 2 bags of Mushkabala. These vehicles were carrying minor forest produce (MFP) in a big way under the garb of Form 25 issued by the Forest Division Anantnag. A total of 1100 bags weighting 363 quintals of MFP was being carried as per Form 25. Fresh leaves of Taxus Bacate ( a critically endangered shrub species ) was also found in the 3 vehicles. It was considered as major success by the Forest department in last more than ten years. |
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Panchayati
Raj Act amended Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: The Assembly today amended the Panchayati Raj Act paving way for 33 percent reservation to women in panchayats. The Assembly passed by a voice vote a Bill introduced by Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed seeking amendments in the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989. Justifying the proposed amendments in the Act, he said that besides empowering women, these would further strengthen the Panchayats as grassroots democratic institutions apart from ensuring timely elections to the leftover panchayats. The enactment amends section-4 wherein not less than 1/3rd of the total number of panch seats reserved previously under above proviso shall be reserved for women belonging to scheduled caste and scheduled tribes. It further provides that not less than 1/3rd including the number of panch seats reserved for women belonging to SC and STs of the total number of seats to be filled by direct selection in every panchayat shall be reserved for women and such seats may be allotted by rotation to different constituencies in panchayats. The amended section 41-substitute word ‘ panchs’ for ‘elected panchs’. The Minister said that these amendments would strengthen the representative character of the halqa panchayats and also ensure effective participation of women and other weaker sections in the functioning of grass root democratic institutions. It would also give voting rights to all women panchs in the election to the Chairman, Block Development Council to encourage their meaningful participation in the affairs of the Panchayati Raj institutions. NC MLAs Abdul Rahim Rather, Ali Mohd Sagar, Ajay Sadhotra and Saifullah Mir opposed the Government decision to give voting rights to the nominated Panchayat members for elected chairpersons of the Boards. An amendment of Mr Sadhotra to the bill was rejected by the House. Earlier, Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Muzaffar Hussain Baig introduced in the Assembly a Bill seeking amendments in the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act, 1997. Stating the objects for proposed amendments in section-4, section 33, section 49 apart from insertion of section 49-A in the Act, the Minister said that it would further clarify the Act of 1997 on the basis of the experience gained by LAHDC and the government after the institution of Council was established. |
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Association of Doctors terms
JDA’s token Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Association of Doctors Jammu Province in a meeting held here today strongly criticised junior doctors for resorting to one day token strike and termed the same as ‘uncalled for’. In the meeting, all the doctors said that the junior doctors should have not observed one day token strike as the Health Minister Ch Lal Singh had already assured them that the demand for increasing the stipend of the Post-Graduate doctors of GMC Jammu and Srinagar was under the active consideration of the Government. "Moreover, he has not only approved the file pertaining to increase in stipend but also got the same cleared by the Finance Ministry which makes it clear that he doesn’t want doctors to suffer for want of anything", the Dr Gautam Goel, chief organisor of the Association said. The participants alleged that the junior doctors of Jammu resorted to strike on the instructions of some vested interests and asked "where were these doctors when their counterparts in the Srinagar launched strike and why they remained quite for five days. It seems that they have become a tool at the hands of those wanting to create hurdles in bringing radical changes in the health sector". Lauding the efforts of the Health Minister, Dr Uttam Singh said that it was only due to his personal efforts that Union Health Ministry has agreed to provide funds to convert GMC Jammu into a institution like AIIMS and added that the creation of super specialities in important departments was also the outcome of his hard-work and commitment to provide all facilities to the people. "The way Health Minister Ch Lal Singh is working the day is not far off when the dream of Dental College for Jammu would become a reality", they further said. Among others who attended the meeting included Dr Uttam Singh, Dr Bhupesh Khajuria, Dr A D S Manhas, Dr Ravinder Khajuria, Dr Rajeshwar Sharma, Dr A D Singh, Dr Brahm Dutt, Dr Saleem-ur-Rehman, Dr Sarita, Dr Dara Singh and Dr Jitender Mehta. |
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Construction of FCI
godowns through private sector in J&K Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Jammu and Kashmir Government has decided to avail the benefit of FCI scheme for construction of storage godowns in private sector in the state. Decision to this effect was taken at a high level meeting held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed here last evening. Chairman Food Corporation of India R. M. Premkumar briefed the Chief Minister about the details of the scheme at the meeting. Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din and Chief Secretary Dr. Sudhir S. Bloeria were also present. Under this scheme, the Government will go in for construction of godowns in the far-flung areas through private participation. These godowns would be hired by the FCI for an assured period of at least seven years. The facility would be utilized for dumping foodgrains in the hilly areas, supply to which is dependent on fair weather conditions and to provide the rations to the consumers without any interruption. The Chief Minister appreciated the proposal and said that this will be highly beneficial for consumers in getting timely ration through public distribution system from the local stores. Besides, he said, the scheme will also generate employment opportunities in the areas like Tulail, Machil, Bhalessa, Marwah, Warwan, Bani, Koteranka, Budhal. The Chief Minister asked the Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Minister to motivate the entrepreneurs for raising structures as per the specifications so that the scheme becomes operational benefiting both the consumers and the leasee of the godowns. Mufti Sayeed expressed satisfaction over the supply of quality rice and other foodgrains in abundance everywhere in the state and the availability of IR-8 variety of rice, which is very popular among the rationees particularly in the Kashmir valley. On liquidating the arrears of the FCI on account of foodgrains lifted in the past on credit, it was stated that the liabilities are being cleared by streamlining the functioning of public distribution system, while the new stocks are lifted against cash payments. The Chief Minister asked the authorities of the consumer affairs and public distribution department to prepare a case on the interest accruing on the liabilities for taking it up with the centre for waiver. The credit facility was availed in the past in view of peculiar situation the state was passing through. Overall availability of foodgrains in the state was thoroughly discussed in the meeting. The Chief Minister also took stock of availability of foodgrains under food for work programme being implemented by the rural development department under the centrally sponsored scheme. The meeting, among others, was attended by Commissioner/Secretary, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution, R. K. Jerath, Zonal Manager, North, FCI, New Delhi, Kush Verma and Senior Regional Manager, FCI, Dr. Shoukat Hussain. Earlier, the FCI Chairman alongwith senior officers of the corporation visited godowns at Chatha. |
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Renovation of
Ministers’ bungalow costs Rs two crore Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: While the State Government has spent an amount of Rupees 1,89, 85,801 on the renovation of the Government bungalows occupied by the Minister, an amount of Rupees 6,04, 130 has been spent on furniture/furnishings of the private houses of the Ministers. In a written reply to the question of Pradhuman Singh, Government stated that an amount of Rupees 64,175 have been spent on the furniture/furnishings of the private house of Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma at 42 B/D, Gandhi Nagar while Rupees 1,26,165 have been spent on the private house of Minister of Social Welfare Mula Ram at Talab Tillo. An amount of Rupees 1,65,346 was spent on furniture/furnishings of the private house of Minister of Roads and Buildings Madan Lal Sharma while Rupees 1,07,031 on the private house of Minister of Food and Supplies, Taj Mohi-ud-Din at Gandhi Nagar. Rupees 1,41,413 have been spent on the private house of Minister of State for Animal Husbandry Yash Paul Kundal. In the reply, Government stated that an amount of Rupees 1,89,85,801 has been spent on renovation/repairs on the Government bungalows occupied by the Ministers from the period from November 2002 to November 2003. It was further stated in the reply that 392 allotments have been made by the Estates Department from November 2002 to November 2003 both at Srinagar and Jammu. 113 allotments were made at Srinagar and 279 at Jammu. In an another reply to the question of Amrit Malhotra, Government, in written reply, stated that 32 vehicles have been alloted to various Ministers and other functionaries by the State Motor Garages while as 101 vehicles have been provided by the security wing of J&K Police to various persons. Six security vehicles have been provided to Deputy Chief Minister, five to Finance Minister, six to Housing Minister, four to Social Welfare Minister, four to Education Minister, three to Agriculture Minister, four to Health Minister, three each to Power, Revenue and PHE Ministers, four to Rural Development Minister, three each to Youth Service and Sports and Science and Technology Ministers, four to Roads and Buildings Minister, three each to Consumer Affairs and PD and Forests Ministers. As far as Ministers of States are concerned, four vehicles from security wing has been provided to MoS Roads and Buildings, four to MoS Education, four to MoS Power, four to MoS Housing, three to MoS Agriculture, three to MoS Irrigation and PHE, three to MoS Health, three to MoS Tourism, three to MoS Rural Development, three to MoS Forests, three to MoS Animal and Sheep Husbandry and three to MoS Industries and Commerce. |
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Shelja adjudged best in Western
vocal solo, Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: With the holding of Western vocal solo and Western group song contest, first phase of the ‘Display Your Talent’ at Jammu University, concluded today. In a jam packed auditorium, the participants from different colleges and the University departments displayed their talent and enthralled audience. Shelja Gupta of the Department of Management Studies was adjudged first in the vocal solo while Akanksha Parihar of GCW Gandhi Nagar and Shubra Jamwal of PG Department of English bagged second and third place, respectively. Preeti Dogra of Government College of Education, Mukti Talwar of GCW Parade and Ragini Singh of GCW Gandhi Nagar were awarded Certificate of Merit for their appreciable performance. In Western group song contest, SPMR College of Commerce clinched the top position. GCW Gandhi Nagar and GCW Parade remained at second and third place, respectively. Certificates of Merit were awarded to Government Women College Gandhi Nagar and PG Department of English. Suman Gupta, Jagmeet Singh and Sumit Sharma were the adjudicators. Mrs Ajita Mattoo was chief guest on the occasion while Dr Renu Nanda was teacher incharge of the events. Results of the photography event, held on December 10, were also declared today. Arun Baru of the Department of Law was adjudged best while Ravi Kumar of PG Department of History and Sandeep of Adarsh College of Education bagged second and third positions, respectively. Mr Ashok Sodhi, Chief Photographer Daily Excelsior, Chandan Sunder and Arvind Gupta were judges of the event while Prof Desh Bandhu was teacher incharge of the activity. |
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Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Finance Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig today charged the National Conference with being power hungry. He said their (the NC members) all actions in the Assembly pointed to their frustration of losing the chair. Replying to debate on the Transfer of Property Act in the Assembly, Mr Baig said the National Conference on very first day of the Assembly had raised the issue of human rights violations. "They are not worried about the human rights violations. They are worried about their own rights, which they felt have been violated with the loss of their chair. They felt that it was their fundamental right to remain in power", he said in an aggressive tone. "On the second day of the session, they raised the issue of food shortage. The NC members are not worried about the people’s ‘bhookh’ (hunger) but they are more concerned about the ‘kursi ki bhookh’ (hunger of power)", he charged. Mr Baig went on: "today they have raised the issue of power tariff because they have lost the power. When Niaz (Mohd Sharief) got up and gave reply, the NC members received current and got fused". "Today, Abdul Rahim Rather has raised the issue of ‘raishumari’, which we had abandoned years before. If he wants the ‘raishumari’, let him given an application to the United Nations", Mr Baig said apparently referring to Mr Rather’s demand for a sending an amendment to Transfer of Property Act for the public opinion. |
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Bill to amend Motor Spirit,
Diesel Taxation Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: State Assembly today passed the Bill to amend the J&K Motor Spirit and Diesel Oil Taxation of Sales Act Samvat 2005 (1948). The Amendment Bill was introduced in the House by Minister of Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Muzaffar Hussain Baig who made strong arguments in support of the Legislation. He said the amendment in the Act has been introduced in the public interest and not for favouring any mafia group or businessman. Allaying the fears of NC member, Abdul Rahim Rather, the Minister said God forbid there is any mafia in the state and if there is any threat to any member, then Government will withdraw the Bill. The Minister said we contested elections and faced bullets and no mafia gang can be more fearful than it , he argued. He , while supporting the Bill said the Government has powers to give exemptions to the people in Sales Tax or any other tax. "But I did not issue the SRO when a particular application in this regard came to me", he added. The main intention was that the Government wanted to inform the House that under what circumstances it wanted to bring the law. And so to give a statuary shape to it we issued an ordinance that is to be passed by the House today, he added. Earlier opposing the Bill Abdul Rahim Rather of NC said the Act was framed in 1848 and what need was felt by the Government after a span of 55 years to Amend it. He wondered what necessity the Government had in issuing the ordinance to give the exemption to a person when the House was to meet after some time. Opposing the Bill the NC member said at national level efforts are being made that any exemption on tax be discontinued and there was no exemption to be given by the state after 2001 but we pleaded with Centre to grant special permission to us and they conceded. He wanted to know how many people applied for exemption except one industrialist and the entire exercise was done to help him. He said when Government has no money to pay DA and COLA to the employees. The doctors are appointed on contract basis how can it afford to give such exemptions to industrialists, he argued. The member said there is the involvement of Mafia group and I apprehend threat to my life so can not come as a stumbling bloc in passing the Bill. But still to put records of the House straight he opposed it. Opposing the Bill Ali Mohammed Sagar said that Mr Baig had said that he wanted to make reforms for better economic health of the state. But it seems there is great differences in the words and deeds of the Government. It appears that Government is working against its programmes and policies. If they had the right concept there was no need of bringing the Bill. Earlier the House also passed the Bill to repeal the J&K Electricity (Supply) Act moved by Power Minister, Mohammed Sharief Niaz. The amendment to the Bill made by NC member Saifullah Mir was rejected by the House. The Member accused the Government of bringing the Bill in hurry and demanded that a thorough debate should be held in the House before passing it. He also demanded that the Bill be sent to Select Committee and after the due discussion it should be taken up. |
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Coca-Cola’s India
Environment Council to be Excelsior Correspondent NEW DELHI, Dec 17: Indian Advisory Board of Coca-Cola India has decided to form an India Environment Council. Justice B N Kirpal, former Chief Justice of India, has also agreed to lead the Council as its Chairman. The Advisory Board, comprising some of the country’s top professionals and most distinguished personalities from different walks of the life, put environment-related activity as a key focus areas for the company. The India Environment Council will help the company steer its environmental plans and policies going forward. The Advisory Board, which met under the chairmanship of former Union Cabinet Secretary Naresh Chandra, will guide the company on various issues including future strategies, corporate citizenship, social responsibility and corporate governance. The members of India Advisory Board are Justice B N Kirpal, former Chief Justice of India, Naresh Chandra, former Union Cabinet Secretary, General V P Malik, former Chief of Staff, Indian Army, Deepak Parekh, Chairman HDFC, S M Dutta, former Chairman Hindustan Lever Limited, Sunil Kant Manjal, Managing Director, The Hero Group Dr Jairam Ramesh, economist Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Sarod maestro and Dr Shyama Chona, eminent educationist. Mr Sanjiv Gupta, India Division president, the Coca-Cola company said: "We are happy to have such eminent persons on the Board to guide Coca-Cola India on various aspects of the company going forward. World-wide our company is known for its adherence to practices in various fields of corporate citizenship, future growth and corporate governance. Nothing is more important to our success that integrity and a strong sense of accountability in everything we do". The Advisory Board will meet three to four times a year and review the performance of Coca-Cola India and guide the management on various operational and environment-related matters to help the company formulate short and long-term strategies. |
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First ever
State Tourism Advisory Committee meeting Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17 : The Government have embarked on a comprehensive plan to promote pilgrim, heritage and adventure tourism in a big way in Jammu and Kashmir. The plan also envisages utilizing available resources like ‘Tata Pani’ in Jammu region for introduction of health tourism as a new arena. Announcing this here last evening at the first ever meeting of State Tourism Advisory Committee, (STAC) the Minister for Tourism, Housing and Urban Development Ghulam Hassan Mir said that the Government have formulated a plan for the purpose and project reports are being sent to the Union Tourism ministry for approval. The meeting was attended by the Minister of State for Irrigation and PHE, Jugal Kishore who represents Katra in the assembly besides, Secretary Tourism, Najmus Saqib, Director General Tourism, Mr. Saleem Beg, senior functionaries of Tourism Department and JK Tourism Development Corporation, representatives of Jammu Chamber of Commerce, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce, Travel Agents Association of India, House Boat Owners Association, Travel Agents Association, Hotel Federation and Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association Jammu and Srinagar. Detailed discussion was held over the suggestions put forth by the representatives and members of State Tourism Advisory Committee. Summing up three hour long deliberations, the Tourism Minister said that the feed back sought from the members of STAC would go a long way in promoting the tourist industry in right direction in the state. He said the Government has formulated a plan for short and long term measures to boost tourism in all the three regions in the state. He said Secretary Tourism and Director General Tourism would monitor the follow up of action on the decisions taken to consolidate tourist infrastructure and to address problems confronting people affiliated with tourist trade. Enumerating the steps taken for revival of tourism in the state, Mr. Mir said that coalition Government under the leadership of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed have put strenuous efforts to attract tourists. He said these steps yielded encouraging results and the tourist influx increased manifold. He said measures are on to ensure comprehensive development of Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Patnitop, Katra, Mansar, Sanasar, Shiv Khori, Tata Pani, Bani and other health resorts. He said new areas have also been identified that would be developed in a phased manner. The Minister hoped that tourist influx would receive further fillip during the ensuing tourist season. He said Government contemplates to involve private sector for development of resorts by way of consolidating required infrastructure. The Secretary Tourism Najmus Saqib said that a Food Crafts Institute would be set up in Jammu on the pattern of the Hotel Management and Catering Technology Institute, Srinagar to provide necessary training to the youth. He said measures are also underway for acquiring land for Yatri Niwas at Jammu and a project report is being sent to Union Tourism ministry shortly. The Director General Tourism, Saleem Beg said that a project report has been formulated for setting up Aquarium at Bahu Fort and Cable Car projects at several spots in Jammu division. |
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Revenue Minister justifies stand of PDP-led Govt Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Revenue Minister and People’s Democratic Forum leader Hakim Mohammad Yasin has said that recent statement of the leaders of India and Pakistan, a resolution of the State Assembly and assertion of a top United States leader have established beyond doubt that present coalition Government in J&K was proving true to the expectations of people and on its commitment to restore peace. Mr Yasin said in a time of little over one year, the philosophy of healing touch and a collective will of the coalition partners has earned international support for restoration of peace and resolution of Kashmir issue. He said bold initiatives of the border cease-fire and a proposal of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on open borders and common currency and its positive response by his Pakistan counterpart Mir Zaffarullah Khan Jamali are the historic moves driven by sincere efforts the coalition Government in Jammu and Kashmir. The Hakim said former US Secretary of State Medeliene Albright’s appeal to the Governments of India and Pakistan to support the policy of healing touch speaks that finally there is a people’s Government in Jammu and Kashmir that cares for the pain the people are going through and is concerned about their future. The Revenue Minister however expressed concern over delay in initiation of dialogue process between Deputy Prime Minister and the separatist leaders and the lack of timeframe for initiation of bus service between Uri and Muzaffarabad. The Hakim said unconditional dialogue with all significant separatist leaders, their ideological differences not-with-standing, should commence at an earliest so that peace process already set in motion could get the required impetus. He said as indicated by media reports the proposal of bus service connecting both parts of Kashmir has raised very high the expectations of the people and delay in setting out a time-frame for initiation of the service would certainly dis-appoint the people on both sides of the Line of Control. |
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BJP chief visits border migrant camps in Akhnoor Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: State BJP president Dr Nirmal Singh visited Devipur, Naiwala and Palanwala to personally listen to the woes of border migrants. He was accompanied by Chhaju Singh (rural president), Chaman Lal, Mela Ram, Jhankar Singh, Master Bachan Singh, Sarpanch Hans Raj, Vakil Singh and Madan Lal Sharma. Dr Nirmal Singh found that the border migrants in these areas were leading miserable life and that Congress Minister and MLAs of the area have developed a callous attitude towards their sufferings. He said the Government has not given them compensation or ration for the month of September thus adding to their problems. He also accused the coalition Government of not providing them relief on regular basis and that the Government has also not supplied them any kerosene oil for the last six months., which is an integral part of the relief package. Border migrants told BJP chief that their live-stock is dying as they received fodder for just three months as against Government assurance to provide such relief for 51 months. They also complained about non-provision of Pucca sheds not withstanding the fact that Central Government has sanctioned Rs 6 crore for the purpose. The BJP chief who visited all the camps assured the inhabitants to take up their cause with the State Government. Dr Singh opposed the term ‘relief’ used for border displaced persons and said that the same should have been used as ‘compensation’ as the concerned did not leave their homes and hearths of their own sweet will and that whatever Government was doing must be termed as compensation. Dr Singh promised full support to border displaced persons and stated that his party has already started ‘Gaon-Gaon Chalo, Ghar-Ghar Chalo’ programme to expose the mis-deeds of the coalition Government and mobilize public opinion against it. |
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Legislators’ CDF being increased from next year: Baig Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Minister for Finance and Planning Muzaffar Hussain Baig today announced that the constituency development fund of legislators is likely to be enhanced from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 35 lakh from next year. Replying to half an hour discussion on the clarifications sought by Mr A.R. Rather on the reply given to his question on December 10, Mr Baig said that the Chief Minister is seized of the matter and a decision is expected soon. The Minister said that guidelines for CDF spending are being updated and made broad based to cater to the developmental needs of larger section of society. However, he assured the members that their viewpoint would also get due weightage while formulating these guidelines. Referring to the announcements being made by the Chief Minister or other Ministers during their visits to various areas about taking up of various schemes on public demand, Mr Baig said that all such proposals go through normal procedure before execution. The feasibility and viability of the schemes is also taken into consideration before allocating funds, in certain cases in phased manner, he added. Mian Altaf Ahmad and Mr Yogesh Sawhney participated in the discussion. |
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| Akhnoor observes bandh, students protest
for school land Excelsior Correspondent AKHNOOR, Dec 17: To lodge protest against the allotment of school land to a private party, the town observed a bandh while students held massive protest demonstration, here today. Shops and business establishments remained closed and normal life was paralysed. Call for the bandh was given by Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad. Students of different schools and higher Secondaries boycotted their classes and assembled at the main bazar. Shouting slogans against the Custodian Department and State Government, the agitating students held a massive demonstration and demanded immediate cancellation of the illegal allotment of the land to a private party. Addressing the demonstration, ABVP leader Suresh Sharma warned to further intensify the agitation and launch hunger strike if the administration does not restore the land allotment to Government Primary School, Akhnoor. The agitating students staged a dharna on the road and remained there for more than two hours. Later Additional DC Jammu, alongwith other senior officers of the administration, visited the dharna site and sought to pacify agitators. He announced to cancell the allotment of land to private party before December 19. |
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ASKPC highlights demands of displaced community Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: A meeting of All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC) political affairs committee was held under the chairmanship of Mr H L Chatta, general secretary to discuss problems confronting the community. The meeting took serious view over the role of some saboteurs of the community and warned them not to play as stooges of the Government. Since the community has lost confidence in the Government because nothing has been done to improve lot of displaced community during the past over 13 months of its rule. The ASKPC leaders said that Government failed to provide jobs to educated youth of the community who are still in the Valley and majority of them having cross age bar to obtain Government jobs. The Government has also failed to construct one room set with kitchen, bathroom in Muthi Phase-II for which Rs 9.5 crore stand sanctioned by Prime Minister, failure of the Government to evict forcible occupation of properties of Kashmiri Pandits in Valley and non-payment of rent there of to the concerned Kashmiri Pandits. The meeting held that the victims of Nadimarg were still moving from pillar to post to get effected the SRO 43, but all in vain. The meeting urged the Central Government to look into the matter and have mercy on hapless migrants. Mr Chatta demanded that a "Hill Development Type" Council be constituted to look into the interests of the displaced community. Those who attended the meeting included Messrs P N Bhat, Manmohan, M L Kashkari, Bansi Lal, Prem Nath Duloo, Dora Ji and P K Madan. |
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Central Govt Pensioners Welfare
Association Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Annual general and election meeting of the Central Government Pensioners Welfare Association was held today to elect new body. D N Sharma, was elected as president of the Association for the year 2004-2005, P P Sharma as vice-president, M N Sehgal, M M Munshi and S N Dulloo were unanimously elected as general secretary, treasurer and joint secretary respectively. Earlier, M N Sehgal, outgoing president presented report of the activities of the Association for the last three years and highlighted community service projects of medical, dental and eyes diagnostic and awareness programmes for the senior citizens, rural people and rural poor children. He informed that nearly 1200 children from about 10 schools of Chawadi, Ratnuchak and Bandu Rakh areas and about 300 senior citizens and rural people have been covered were provided medical care and advice by renowned specialists of medical profession. He also informed that the Association has been providing personalised services to the needy citizens through its helpline and assisting pensioners and their families in their official matters. Referring to the long standing issue of the starting Central Government Health Scheme in the State, Mr Sehgal stated that correspondence has been continuing with the highest authorities in the Central Government, including the PMO. He congratulated the newly elected president and his team and wished that the pensioners will continue to sustain the community service activities with support from the members and society at large. He expressed his gratitude to the medical professionals and organisations like the Vivekanand Medical Mission and Regional Red Cross for their cooperation and support in these activities. The president welcomed P P Sharma, Ram Parkash, S N Dulloo and Sujan Singh, who joined the Association this year. On this occasion mementos of felicitation were presented to outstanding medical professionals. Dr Mohan Lal, senior cardiologist, Dr Jitender Singh, eminent diabetologist, Dr Subash Gupta, ex-Principal GMC, Dr Gautam Mengi, Dental Specialist, Dr V K Gandotra, senior cardiologist, Dr Sunil Sharma and Dr Ayushman Bhat, senior physicians, Dr Ramesh Singh and Dr Sudesh Raina were felicitated for their contribution in organising free medical camps and public awareness programmes from time to time. Lal Singh rules out shortage of drugs in Govt hospitals Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 16: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Ch. Lal Singh today said that in order to safe-guard the interest of patients the various Head of Department of Health and Medical Education sector have been vested with the power of making local purchase of drugs and essential items upto Rs 25,000 in case of necessity. The Minister was replying to the call attention motion moved by Mr Abdul Rehman Tukroo during the proceedings of Legislative Council today. Mr Tukroo highlighted the problems faced by people due to shortage of medicine and other related equipments at SKIMS, Srinagar and enquired about the steps taken by Government in this regard. The Minister said that Government is taking complete care of the matter to ensure that there is no shortage of hospital supplies including general medicines, life saving drugs, surgical instruments, disposables, kits for diagnostic purpose in Government hospitals. A lot of measures are being taken to tackle any procedural delay coming up in this regard. Ch. Lal Singh further said that only some medicines are provided in the hospitals. Other medicines have to be purchased by the patients and relaxation in this regard can be given only to the people living below poverty line. Mr Lal Singh further said that decision has been taken to establish an independent J&K Medical Supplies Corporation for procurement of drugs, machinery, equipment and also its warehousing repairs and maintenance on the pattern of Tamilnadu, Medical Supplies Corporation as a part of "Policy Review on Comprehensive Drug Policy" for which financial assistance would be provided by European commission under Sector Investment Programme. Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: State president of Bhartiya Janta Yuva Morcha, Anil Parihar today announced his State office bearers and district presidents. The list contains names of 37 working committee members, 15 office bearers, 3 district presidents and 1 Kashmir Migrant Cell incharge. Sanjay Nagpal, Narotam Sharma (Lovely), Daljeet Singh, Som Nath, Hari Krishan and Purnima Sharma have been appointed as vice presidents while Yudhvir Sethi and Arit Gupta are new general secretary and cashier, respectively. Ranjit Singh, Dr Neena, Sanjay Mahajan, Rajesh Gupta and Ajay Mahajan are the secretaries while Sukhdev Singh has been made office incharge. Vijay Choudhary and R C Meni have been nominated as publicity secretary and media incharge, respectively. Munish Sharma, Sunil Sharma and Kuldeep Sharma are new district presidents for Jammu, Doda and Akhnoor, respectively while Rakesh Suri has been made incharge of Kashmir Migrant Cell. The working committee members are Satish Sharma, Deepak Gupta, Subash Bhagat, Narinder Mahajan, Vikram Choudhary, Sudhir Jamwal, Abhay Pargal, Parveen Kahphi, Rajesh Gupta, Vinod Gupta, Devinder Singh, Om Prakash Soodan, Gulshan, Rajinder Sharma, Surinder Sharma, Sukhdev Singh, Joginder Kumar, Chander Shekhar, Ajeet Parihar, Ranjit Singh Manhas, Amit Hira, Shashi Pal Sharma, Mandeep Dev Singh Jamwal, Navneet Singh, Ajay Kumar, Sanjay Pandoh, Farooq Ahmed, Abdul Rashid Akhuti, Ganzandfar Ali, Mohd Amin Shah, Mohd Yusuf Locohorie, Mohd Altaf, Hussain, Prithpal Singh (Niku), Sonu Sharma, Arish Kotwal, Anil Verma, Shashi Gupta. Purav Sainik Parishad celebrates Vijay Divas Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Purav Sainik Sewa Parishad J&K unit celebrated ‘Vijay Divas’, to commemorate glorious victory of Indian Armed Forces over Pakistan in 1971 war which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh. The celebration was held at main commercial complex Sector-G, Sainik Colony, Jammu. A large number of ex-servicemen participated in the function. Brig Suchet Singh president Purav Sainik Sewa Parishad presided over the function. The programme commenced with the unfurling of Parishad flag by the Ex-servicemen. A large number of them who had participated in 1971 war were also present at the celebrations. While speaking on the occasion they narrated their experiences of the war. The prominent among those who spoke on the occasion include—Lt Col Atam Singh, H/ Capt Govind Singh and Naib Subedar- Raghubir Singh Jamwal. Rich tributes were paid to the soldiers who laid down their lives during this war. The mother and wife of Martyr, Maj I S Babbar, a local officer were also honoured on this occasion. Maj Babbar, of 14 Field Regiment and a brave son of the soil laid down his life fighting insurgents in Assam recently. Industry-University interactive meet organised by IQAC Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Internal Quality Assurance Cell of the University of Jammu, organised an interactive meet of the leading industrialists, Chartered Accountants, business men and other well known members of the civil society. Vice-Chancellor Prof Amitabh Mattoo, who presided over the meet, emphasised that the University needs to extend its vision and activities to the civil society. He referred to four important areas where industry-University interaction will prove to be mutually benefitted, namely consultancy services, faculty-industry collaboration in innovative ventures, training and placement of students and revival and promotion enterpreneurship through incubator approach. The representatives from the industry appreciated the initiative taken by Jammu University and reiterated the need for such meaningful and fruitful meetings. A committee comprising of representatives of the industry and University, was also constituted for concrete follow-up action after such meetings. Earlier, Prof Rajiv Gupta, convenor of the Cell, welcomed the guests while Dr Deepak Raj Gupta stressed the need for organising more such interactive meetings. Probe ordered into migrants registration Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17 : Minister for Revenue Hakim Mohammad Yasin announced a probe into bungling in registration and distribution of migrant relief committed during the National Conference rule. The Minister, replying to the supplementaries to a question by Abdul Gani Malik, said instructions have been issued to all the deputy commissioners to provide adequate protection and relief to the migrants of Jammu division at their district headquarters who have left their homes and hearths due to militancy and threat perception. He said the migrants of Gurez area would be provided relief and other assistance at par with other border migrants. Earlier, in reply to the main question, the Minister said that 119 families of Jammu division are presently registered with Relief Organization (Migrant) are being provided cash assistance of Rs. 750 per head per month subject to the ceiling of Rs. 3000 per family. In addition, they are being provided 9 kg rice, 2 kg atta per member and one kg sugar per family per month. He said 1235 cases are pending for registration. In reply to another question by Moulvi Abdul Rashid, the Minister said that government has no proposal at present for construction of new revenue complex at Banihal. Replying to the supplementaries, Yasin said that the Chief Minister would be requested to take up the matter with the army authorities for vacating the revenue complex at Banihal. Speaker Legislative Assembly Tara Chand intervening, directed the government to take necessary steps so that alternate accommodation is made available to the security forces wherever required and the institutional buildings presently occupied by them are got vacated. Junior doctors observe one day token strike Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: All the junior doctors of the Government Medical College Hospital Jammu and its Associated Hospitals today observed one day token strike. Though the doctors boycotted all sort of duties in the hospital excluding Emergency, yet there was very little impact on the functioning of the hospital. In the morning, the Junior Doctors Association held a meeting wherein it was decided that from tomorrow the junior doctors would wear black badges to protest in a peaceful manner till Monday. "Our counterparts in the GMC Srinagar have given a time upto Monday to the administration to concede the demands and to prevent them from intensifying the agitation that is why we only observed token strike today", president of JDA said. He disclosed that in the meeting of JDA it was decided that from tomorrow the junior doctors would wear black badges to protest in the peaceful manner but if the talks between their counterparts in the Valley and administration failed to end deadlock then they would also intensify their agitation after taking unanimous decision in the meeting of JDA to be held on Monday. The JDA president said that the junior doctors have failed to understand as to for what the State Cabinet had not cleared the proposal to enhance the stipend of the Post Graduates despite nod to it by the Health and Finance Ministry. "We have been fighting for this demand for the past over two and half years but till today the issue continued to linger on due to the neglecting attitude of the administration", he said and added that their demand was genuine because of the fact that in Jammu and Srinagar Medical Colleges, the PGs have been getting Rs 8000 as stipend but their counterparts in the SKIMS were getting Rs 13000. He urged the Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed to concede the demand of the junior doctors at the earliest. BJYM to launch agitation against recruitment policy Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha has resolved to launch agitation in all the district headquarters if Jammu region in protest against the recruitment policy of the State Government. Anil Parihar, state unit president of the Morcha alleged that exploitation of the unemployed youth is going on unchecked and the new Government by providing employment to thousands of people at the rate of Rs 1500 has added to the problems of the youth. For the publicity sake the Chief Minister Mufti Sayeed and the Education Minister Harshdev Singh are organising large rallies and issuing appointment orders for Rs 1500. He warned that people will not tolerate any more exploitation and the Supreme Court too, has given clear-cut instructions for Rs 3000 minimum wages in the Government agencies. The recently introduced employment on contractual basis which is again an exploitation. Hardly one or 2 posts are being advertised and that too, on the contract basis for different departments. The Jammu youth are facing discrimination since long and even coalition Government has failed to provide any succor to them. There is no proper recruitment policy with the Mufti Government and youth are apprehending their dark future ahead. The BJYM will launch massive agitation against the Mufti Government for its attitude towards youth. He said Wazir Commission Report was not implemented so far. Major commitments made with the people of Jammu by Congress and Panthers Party before elections could not be fulfilled. The Chief Minister from Jammu as assured by Congress seems to be act just to befool the people. The youth should come forward and launch agitation unitedly, he added. Mr Jugal Kishore, MLA Nagrota was also present in the conference. The new office bearers of the Morcha were also announced by the state president on this occasion. JK Bank settles insurance claim within 15 days Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 17: Mr Sam Ghosh, Country Head for Allianz India and Mr Kamesh Goyal, CEO of Bajaj Allianz jointly today presented a cheque of rupees two lakh to Khazan Singh against the insurance claim of his deceased wife Preetam Kour who was insured with Bajaj Allianz under J&K Bank Account Holders’ Group Personal Accident Insurance Policy against the nominal premium of rupees 50 for accidental death cover of rupees two lakh through Bank’s Nai Basti Jammu branch. The insured had met with an accident and lost her life. While fulfilling their commitment of providing competitive and hassle-free insurance services to their customers, both Bajaj Allianz and J&K Bank created an example by setting a claim in a record time of 15 days. With tears in his eyes, the bereaved husband on this occasion expressed his gratitude to J&K Bank for having arranged the accidental insurance cover for his wife against the affordable premium of rupees 50. Speaking on the occasion, Mr AK Mehta, JGM (Insurance) reiterated that it is the sole motive of J&K Bank to provide financial security to its customers. He expressed his sympathies with the bereaved family on behalf of the Bank Chairman MY Khan. PATH’s Conservation
Awareness NOG initiative By Lalit Gupta JAMMU, Dec 17: The conservation awareness camp, first of its kind in the state organised by PATH -Preserve Art Treasure and Heritage, in collaboration with Cultural Academy, at the Abhinav Art Gallery, here today, has come as a NGO initiative to preserving our heritage before it is too late. The visitors to the Camp, included school children, academicians, writers, technocrats, private collectors, eminent and common citizens, who showed keen interest in the simple tips which were explained on the occasion by Aparna Tandon, Convenor, PATH. Such is the dearth of technical expertise in the field of heritage preservation that many people and representatives of organisations had brought their old manuscripts, photographs, astrological charts, etc. for preventive and well as curative treatment. The one day conservation awareness camp by PATH has touched the area of technical facility and expertise which is totally absent the state. Especially when there is a heightened consciousness about heritage in present times. The people in absence of any Govt. agency are at loss as where to look for advice. The initiative by PATH in the direction of heritage preservation is therefore a timely gesture. Since PATH’s Conservation Awareness Camp was being held along with the rare manuscript exhibition, the ambiance of old and artistically decorated old books, served as a befitting backdrop to the need and the care required to keep the precious heritage intact. The technical team of PATH led by Aparna Tandon, included Shveta Walli and Kirpal Singh who in the presence of school children, private collectors and others conserved various documents, manuscripts, paintings & photographs. The team also carried out free conservation and scientific mounting of the miniatures in Academy’s collection. The technical team also explained about the importance of the storage space of old documents and works of art so that the damage can be prevented. Special sessions for representatives of Press as well as staff handling art was also held in today’s camp. PATH, first of its kind NGO in the state, believes that preservation of cultural heritage is a shared responsibility of the people and the state. For sustaining heritage, people’s involvement is must for allowing utilization of limited resources. The major projects of PATH includes conservation and management plan of the historic Samba fort. For which PATH has already been successful in forming a citizen’s committee for the preservation of the fort. The conservation plan of the fort of PATH has already stands approved by the Center for Sustainable Studies, University College London. Working with the aim to create awareness and providing training for heritage preservation and management in the state, the founder members of PATH include S.P. Sahni, veteran journalist, Prof. Zahu-ud-din, Prof Lalit Mangotra, PB Sengar, superintending archaeologist, Lalit Gupta, art historian, Rajinder Tikku, sculptor, Gen B.N. Dhar, Shilpa Tandon, Deepak Kumar, theatre director, Manoj Chopra, cartoonist, V.K. Tandon, social worker, Shveta Wali, asst conservator, Sanjay Tikku, architect, Dr. SN Lal, historian, Monica Mishra, graphic designer, and Veena Tandon, educationist. Looking at the response of the people PATH has decided to hold such awareness camps in different part of the state. PG doctors decide to continue stir Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Dec 17: The Junior Doctors Working Committee (JDWC) today decided to continue their strike in Government Medical College Srinagar and its Associated Hospitals. However, the doctors have decided to provide a helping hand to their senior colleagues in running Emergency Services at all hospitals till next decision. In a Press release here today, a JDWC spokesman said that the wards, OPD’s routine theatres, para-clinical and non-clinical departments will be taken care of by the Faculty. He threatened to bring all health institutions of Kashmir valley under the ambit of the present strike if the state government failed to address the genuine demands of the post-graduation stipendiaries at an earliest. The spokesman said that entire responsibility of such an extremist measure would lie on the government. Stipendiary doctors pursuing post-graduation courses in Medicine and Surgery at SMHS Hospital and its associated hospitals in Srinagar are presently entitled to a monthly stipend of Rs 8,000 in first year, Rs 8,275 in second year and Rs 8,550 in the third year of their PG courses. They have been demanding Rs 8,000 plus all allowances admissible in case of the permanent PSC-cleared doctors and even those stipendiaries who are sent to SKIMS for the same course by the Board of Professional Entrance Examinations. The agitating doctors claim that the Finance Ministry had acquiesed into their genuine demand but the state Cabinet has recently turned down the proposal. They have now launched an indefinite strike while seeking parity with the PG trainees of SKIMS and the PSC-cleared doctors who are under PG training at SMHS Hospital and its associated hospitals. |
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